How to recognize love in the midst of…

I use a sign-in for my laptop. There are three options: type in my password, enter a certain four-digits on the numeric keypad or use fingerprint recognition. I prefer the latter. I run the end of my finger over a tiny metal bar and that is all it takes – well, sometimes. The problem is that the laptop often has difficulties recognizing my fingerprint. This usually happens after I do the dishes or wash my hands. If I’m not recognized in some manner, I can’t use the laptop.

I have seen it written: “If we could spread love as quickly as we spread hate and negativity, what an amazing world we would live in.”

As a Christian, I am called to love others. This is most difficult at times, I do so imperfectly, but I am still called to do so. I believe we can be too quick to rationalize this away, declaring it to be idealized and unrealistic.

An example of this may be with folks who hold different political views.

Facebook is a wonderful creation. It can also give rise to the worst part of us, especially when this involves politics. As of today, I have yet to know anyone who has had their political views changed because of reading a Facebook post. What I have witnessed, however, are plenty of posts that serve only to insult and demean, and it is getting worse.

In my view, Facebook isn’t the best method to hash out such disagreements.

If something is important enough to express, and if one has the courage, a face-to-face meeting is best. I realize that not everyone is willing to do this.

In those times when I have done so, I have a goal to agree with at least one viewpoint of the other person. I listen for it, and if I find one (or more) I will share that with them.

This seems like such a small thing. However, in my book, this is an act of love and I believe God recognizes it.

Walter is pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church and has served as parish pastor for more than 30 years.